The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have issued an urgent public health message as rising temperatures sweep across the country, specifically targeting workers who wear personal protective equipment (PPE). With the Met Office issuing red and amber heat warnings, the government departments stressed the importance of keeping Brits safe in their workplaces.
PPE and Heat Stress Risks
The warning highlights that wearing PPE—such as gloves, gowns, and surgical masks—in warm or hot environments significantly increases the risk of heat stress. This condition occurs when the body loses its ability to cool itself enough to maintain a healthy temperature. Heat stress can lead to heat exhaustion and, in severe cases, life-threatening heat stroke.
The UKHSA stated: “Ensure that PPE supplies are sufficient to cover a likely increase in demand for certain PPE items during hot weather due to staff changing equipment more frequently.” The departments urged employers and managers to consider whether more staff may be needed per shift to maintain service levels amid more frequent breaks, and to identify vulnerable workers during the heatwave.
Workplace Temperature Control Measures
The departments emphasised that measures should be implemented to control workplace temperatures, particularly in clinical and care environments. Data shows that 50.2% of NHS trusts reported at least one overheating incident during the summer of 2022. Recommendations include removing or reducing heat sources and improving ventilation where possible.
The UKHSA added: “Staff should also be supported to adapt their behaviour to stay cool and well hydrated. Staff may require more frequent breaks and the frequency of PPE changes are likely to increase, with a resulting increase in demand.”
Signs of Heat Stress and Prevention
For staff, the UKHSA encouraged taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and being aware of symptoms such as thirst, dry mouth, dark or strong-smelling urine, infrequent urination, inability to concentrate, muscle cramps, or fainting. Workers were urged not to wait until extreme symptoms appear before resting, but to take breaks before feeling unwell.
